The difference between a positive correlation and a negative correlation is that
A)in a negative correlation,high scores go with high scores and low with low; in a positive correlation,high scores go with low scores and low with high.
B)in a negative correlation,high scores go with low scores and low with high; in a positive correlation,high scores go with high scores and low with low.
C)negative correlations are curvilinear; positive correlations are straight lines.
D)negative correlations represent a weak relationship; positive correlations represent a strong relationship.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In a negative correlation, high scores are associated with low scores and vice versa. In a positive correlation, high scores are associated with high scores and low scores are associated with low scores. This is the fundamental difference between the two types of correlations. Choice A is incorrect as it states the exact opposite of the correct definition. Choice C is incorrect as correlations can be either linear or curvilinear, regardless of whether they are positive or negative. Choice D is incorrect as the strength of a correlation depends on the size of the correlation coefficient, regardless of whether it is positive or negative.

The Difference Between a Positive Correlation and a Negative Correlation